Intel must get ready to face some tough competition from rival Advanced Micro Devices. AMD, which is currently struggling to get a foothold in the declining market of personal computer processors, says its new product will make it competitive in the market for high-end machines used by gamers. The Zen processor is set to debut early next year.
AMD set to challenge Intel
The California-based company showed off a test version of the processor based on its Zen design running side by side on similar tasks against a PC powered by an Intel Core i7 9600k. The company says its new processor, which was not running at full capacity and uses less electricity, won the test.
AMD Chief Executive Officer Lisa Su is trying to turn around the company by offering a design that can compete with Intel products in power usage and performance. The Zen’s predecessors failed to meet expectations and thus were unable to stop the market share losses to Intel, notes Bloomberg.
In an interview, the AMD CEO said, “I know there’s a lot of anticipation around Zen. We intend to continue to execute.”
The company’s finances have rebounded with victories in areas like game consoles since Su became CEO. This year, the company’s stock has more than tripled.
AMD’s market share has dropped by more than half from five years ago. At that time, it had more than one-third of the desktop processor business, according to Bloomberg. The first version of the upcoming processor will target gamers who like to build their own machines. The U.S.-based semiconductor company said it will be at least 40% better than its predecessor. The company has won some hold in the market for graphics processors, but it is still struggling in the larger business of microprocessors.
Intel’s security spin-out could get delayed
In other Intel news, John McAfee and MGT Capital Investments have asked a court in New York to stop Intel from separating its security business under the McAfee name. John McAfee is asking the court to issue an injunction on the deal until the dispute regarding the use of his personal name is settled.
In the filling, McAfee claims there are good chances that Intel will sell the rights to use his full name to the new venture.
“Should the sale go forward any judgment awarded to Plaintiffs will be ineffectual,” the filing said.
On Tuesday, Intel shares closed up 2.31% at $36.80.
Photo by Manuel Conde
